Chiefs Declare War on Drug Issue

Following the biggest drug bust in Legalega, Nadi, three chiefs from the West are uniting with a compelling urgency to address the rampant drug issue.

The chiefs are Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci, Tui Sabeto Ratu Viliame Mataitoga, and Tui Nawaka Ratu Joeli Naevo.

Police identified Nadi as a hotspot for illicit substances, leading to the seizure of three tonnes (3000kg) of suspected methamphetamine on Sunday following a tipoff.

The illicit drugs have a street value of $2 billion, according to Police sources. Preliminary investigations suggest the consignment was shipped to Fiji and destined for Australia, underscoring the global nature of the illicit drug trade.

Chiefs take a stand

The newly installed Tui Sabeto, Ratu Viliame, pledges to prioritise the fight against drugs.

Acknowledging the prevalence of drug related cases in Nadi, Ratu Viliame asserts his commitment to stand with the people and tackle this pressing issue.

Tui Nawaka Ratu Joeli expresses deep concern and announces plans for a meeting to raise awareness among the youth about the dangers of drug involvement.

Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani echoes similar sentiments.

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Stakeholders call for swift action

As the police investigation unfolds, stakeholders including the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Nadi Town Council are urgently appealing for swift action to address what they term a “serious and worrying issue” in Nadi.

Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua emphasises the necessity of a collective effort, acknowledging the systemic gaps in a small country like Fiji, where everyone needs to contribute to the fight against drugs.

He frames the struggle as a battle for the lives of the nation’s youth, asserting: “These drugs are killing our people.”

Concerns, calls for action

The president of the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr Ram Raju, labels the drug bust as staggering, highlighting concerns about Fiji’s vulnerability as a middle country for illegal drug trade.

He calls for bold and effective measures, suggesting the declaration of Fiji as “smoke and drugfree”.

Former Nadi Town Council special administrator chair, Lawrence Kumar, echoes the worry about the rising trend in Legalega and Votualevu, highlighting the need for enhanced law and order in the country’s tourist capital.

Mr Tikoduadua’s commitment to legislative action

Minister Tikoduadua acknowledges the need for legislative review and strengthening laws governing illicit drug trade and border control.

He emphasises the importance of imposing harsher penalties for those involved in facilitating drug trade and calls for a tougher legal stance against offenders.

Additionally, he highlighted the significance of intelligence development capability and building effective processes within the police for thorough investigations.

Education, he believes, is vital to discourage Fijians from getting involved with drugs.

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj